Shingles

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of three people in the USA will develop shingles. Shingles, also referred to as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the chickenpox virus that leaves a painful rash on one side of the body. After being infected, the chickenpox virus does not leave the body. Instead, it stays dormant in your nerve roots. Yet there are instances where the immune system weakens and the virus becomes active again, resulting in shingles.

For most, the chance of awakening the virus is very unlikely, but some people do come down with the shingles if precautions are not taken to avoid it. The easiest way to prevent shingles is to get the vaccine. Statistics by the CDC however, show that “only 10% of those 60 and older — the group most at risk for shingles — got the vaccine” (USA Today). If you are over 50 or have any health problems that may weaken your immune system, is it important that you speak to a healthcare provider about the vaccine. To read more on the CDC article go here or for further information on shingles click here. If you find yourself wondering where to go for assistance in getting the vaccination call us at (617) 635-5050.

Call us at 617-534-5050

Located in Boston, the Mayor’s Health Line is a free and confidential, information and referral phone service open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. It is your one-stop-shop for your health insurance and health care needs. The Mayor's Health Line is part of the Boston Public Health Commission. please visit their site at www.bphc.org